Chief Ministers and senior leaders from across the Northeast on Wednesday expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who was killed in a plane crash near Baramati earlier in the day.
Remembering the 66-year-old leader as a committed and seasoned public servant, the leaders said Pawar’s long political career and contributions to Maharashtra’s development would be remembered for generations.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he was deeply pained by Pawar’s sudden demise, describing him as a leader who dedicated his life to public service and governance.
Sarma noted that Pawar’s role in shaping Maharashtra’s development had left a lasting impact and conveyed condolences to his family, supporters and the people of the state.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha also expressed profound grief, calling Pawar’s death tragic and untimely.
He said Pawar’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the progress of Maharashtra would be deeply missed, and extended his sympathies to the bereaved family and colleagues.
Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party president Conrad K. Sangma said he was shocked and saddened by the loss of the Maharashtra leader.
He recalled Pawar’s more than three decades of public service, during which he played a significant role in the state’s development, and offered condolences to his family and loved ones.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu described Pawar as a dedicated public servant whose contributions would long be remembered.
He also mourned the loss of others who died in the aircraft crash and said his thoughts and prayers were with all the families affected by the tragedy.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio termed Pawar’s death a great loss not only to Maharashtra but also to the many lives he touched through his long years in public life.
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He conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for peace for the departed souls.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said he was extremely shocked by the tragic news, calling Pawar’s passing a tremendous loss to Maharashtra and to all who respected his leadership.
He said Pawar’s legacy of service would continue to be remembered.
Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also condoled Pawar’s death, describing him as a seasoned leader who served the people of Maharashtra with dedication and commitment.
Ajit Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati to attend a public meeting during the ongoing Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections when the aircraft crashed while attempting to land near Baramati around 9 am.
All six people on board, including the NCP leader, were killed in the accident.
